'It’s Chico Time' at The Mary Stevens Hospice!
X-Factor favourite Chico made a visit to The Mary Stevens Hospice this week ahead of his star appearance in the hospice’s upcoming pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk.
The popular entertainer met with patients, staff, and volunteers, bringing smiles and excitement as he posed for photos and heard moving stories from those supported by the charity.
Chico, who rose to fame on The X Factor and reached number one in the charts with his hit single “It’s Chico Time”, spent two hours at the hospice before joining the rest of the cast for rehearsals at The Copthorne Hotel, Merry Hill - one of the many local businesses proudly supporting the production.
Speaking after his visit, Chico said: “It’s been a privilege to meet everyone today and to see the incredible work the team does here firsthand. The range of services offered to the community, is truly inspiring. After a close friend’s father received such compassionate end-of-life care here, joining the panto as ‘King Chico’ feels like the very least I can do. I’m more determined than ever to help February’s show beat last year’s fundraising total.”
Now an advocate for holistic wellbeing and founder of international wellness retreats, Chico expressed a deep appreciation for the hospice’s holistic approach to patient care, a model he says is essential for both patients and families facing end-of-life journeys.
The annual pantomime, now in its 8th successful year, has become the hospice’s largest fundraiser, with each performance supporting the charity’s care services, provided free of charge for local people.
Amanda Bowen, Director of Fundraising at the charity and Producer of the pantomime, commented: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have Chico join us for this year’s production. His energy, passion, and star power bring something really special to the stage. Our pantomime has become a highlight of the local calendar, and with Chico as our King, audiences are in for a truly magical experience - all while raising essential funds for hospice care.”
Tickets for the panto can be bought online at boroughhalls.co.uk/msh-jack-and-the-beanstalk.html or by calling the hospice direct on 01384 377778.
